SERIOUS AS A HEART ATTACK
The recent death of actor James Gandolfini thrust the perils of heart disease back into the spotlight. The 51-year-old actor, who was best known for his role as Tony Soprano on HBO’s hit show The Sopranos, died suddenly of a heart attack. Heart attacks are a leading killer of both men and women in the United States, with more than 1 million Americans suffering heart attacks each year.
Photo from hbo.com
What happens during a heart attack?
A heart attack occurs when your heart does not get the constant supply of oxygen-rich blood it needs due to buildup of plaques in the arteries. The heart muscle becomes “starved” for oxygen, and the heart’s cells die.
Risk Factors for a Heart Attack
Heart attack risk factors include the following:
- Age: Men over 45 and women over 55
- Tobacco use
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Family history
- Obesity
- Lack of physical activity
- Stress
Symptoms of a Heart Attack
Symptoms of a heart attack include the following:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Upper body discomfort including one or both arms, the back, the neck, the jaw or the upper part of the stomach
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
Preventing a Heart Attack
- Diagnosis: Visit your doctor regularly and keep current on tests and bloodwork so you know the state of your health.
- Medications: Your doctor may place you on medications to help manage your risk factors.
- Lifestyle changes: Some simple lifestyle changes may lower your risk for heart disease:
- Quit smoking
- Stay physically active
- Follow a healthy diet, including drinking lots of Tyent Water
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Reduce and manage stress
Back in February, we posted a Healthy Heart Infographic for American Heart Month. Please check it out and share this important information with your friends and family. Take good care of your heart, and yourself!
